How do you get rid of sunspots?

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According to Real Simple, "sunspots," or solar lentigines, can be removed by using a cleanser that contains an exfoliator or by using a brightening serum. Dermatologists are also able to prescribe creams containing hydroquinone to help remove these dark spots on the skin.

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Many commercially available exfoliating products help over time to lessen the appearance of solar lentigines, more commonly known as "age spots" or "liver spots." Some of these products contain papaya enzymes, pineapple enzymes, salicylic acid or glycolic acid as an active ingredient, according to Real Simple. By sloughing off darker-pigmented skin cells with an exfoliating cream both morning and night as part of a cleansing routine, age spots begin to fade. When combined with a brightening serum, even greater results are achieved. Brightening serums help to smooth skin and contain melanin-inhibiting ingredients that prevent discoloration.

According to Real Simple, if four to six weeks of exfoliation and brightening serum does not help to alleviate solar lentigines, it may be necessary to visit a dermatologist to get a prescription for a cream with a higher amount of hydroquinone in order to see more dramatic results. This cream should typically be applied to age spots at night after cleansing. To prevent solar lentigines from returning, it is important to use a high-SPF sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher and that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. A yearly visit to a dermatologist is important to ensure that age spots are indeed age spots rather than moles or other skin problems that could be cancerous or pre-cancerous.

According to Paula's Choice, utilizing a gentle skin care routine focused on exfoliating the pores is the best way to reduce oily skin. Proper cleansing and toning is critical. It is a common misconception that over-drying the skin helps to combat oily skin. In fact, the use of harsh scrubs and products with alcohol actually triggers the production of more oil.

Some factors to consider before receiving treatment include whether the condition causes pain or interferes with daily life, the cost and results of treatment and whether the skin condition has caused infection in the body. Seeking treatment is often necessary to diagnose the condition, even if no other symptoms are present.